The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has started a resurfacing project on a six-mile stretch of US 40, from east of Berthoud Falls through Empire to Interstate 70. The work began in early September and is expected to last for six weeks.
The project includes removing or milling off the old asphalt and replacing it with new pavement. According to CDOT, this effort is part of a larger initiative to improve the roadway before the winter season and increased ski traffic.
Construction crews will conduct overnight paving operations from Sunday through Thursday, between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. During these hours, drivers should expect alternating single lane closures in both directions as well as intermittent 15-minute traffic holds.
Daytime closures will also continue, with short-term traffic holds for additional work such as electrical installations, pipe replacements, and guardrail repairs.
Beyond resurfacing, CDOT is upgrading drainage systems by installing new components and cleaning inlets and culverts. The department is also replacing guardrails, signage, and road striping along the route. In Empire, further improvements include replacing two traffic signals, updating crosswalks and curb ramps for safety compliance, building bulb-outs, and making drainage enhancements intended to divert water away from the roadway.
A spokesperson for CDOT stated: “The upgrades will divert water away from the roadway, which will greatly help to prevent potholes, erosion and other damage. The new pavement will make for a better driving surface.”
